Great Hikes on the Big Island
Discover some of the most breathtaking hiking trails Hawaii has to offer, from lush rainforest paths to volcanic crater treks, each showcasing the island’s diverse natural beauty. With serene rainforest views and easy access to these unforgettable hikes, our Hawaii bed and breakfast is the perfect place to rest and recharge for your next adventure.Pololu Valley: Awini Trail
Take a trip to the northern end of the Big Island and pass through stunning scenery and charming local towns, such as Hawi and Kapa’au, on your way to Pololu Valley. With spectacular views from the trailhead, this historic valley is one of the most accessible and beautiful on the island. From the lookout at the top, gaze over the lush valley and the expansive Pacific Ocean as it meets the towering green cliffs that wind through a series of gorges culminating at Waipi’o Valley.
Characterized by lush carpets of tropical greenery, the 400ft hike down numerous switchbacks treats you to many picturesque lookouts and a wide variety of native vegetation, such as air plant, ironwood, and morning glory, many of which traditional Hawaiians used for daily purposes. At the base of the valley is a wide stretch of black sand beach, scattered with large boulders and sliced by a stream. Although the beach is beautiful and a great place to relax after the hike, swimming is not recommended due to large waves and strong rip currents.
Looking back into the isolated valley with the sound of the ocean behind you, it may be hard to imagine that Pololu once cultivated a large community of kalo (taro) farmers, who transported their harvest by donkey trains. You won’t regret a trip down into this valley where you can explore history, culture, and an unforgettable tropical ecosystem.
Difficulty: Moderate, tennis shoes okay.
Kalopa State Park Nature Loop
A favorite hike of many local residents for its educational value and easy access is the nature trail in Kalopa Native Forest State Park. Follow the signs mauka (upslope) off the main highway (19) about 10 minutes south of Honoka’a on the Hamakua Coast. This hidden gem offers a short 0.7-mile nature hike through a native Hawaiian rainforest. Pick up an informational brochure at the trailhead, where 24 stations identify sections of Kalopa’s pristine forest filled mostly with native trees, shrubs, ferns, and other forest life.
With 89% of Hawaiian plants being endemic, this is one of the few places in the world to see such a variety clearly labeled and accessible. One of the more interesting plants is the palapalai (lace) fern, traditionally used to make head and ankle leis for dancing. The park also offers a sheltered pavilion adjacent to a large, well-maintained recreational and picnic area. For the more adventurous, there are longer hikes throughout the 100-acre State Park outlined on trail maps. Be sure to bring bug spray, as mosquitoes love the rainforest as much as we do.
Difficulty: Easy
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
Generations ago, Hawaiian fishermen established a network of shoreline trails used for quick travel while hunting for food along the coast. Today, it’s still possible to hike along the very same paths on the 175-mile Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. Continuously in use since the island was first inhabited, this network of trails has connected royal centers, trade routes, natural resource areas, and ahupua’a (traditional land divisions).
Between the Honokohau Marina and the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is a wonderful section of the trail filled with archaeological sites, beautiful views of the Pacific, and incredible sea life. You might even spot Hawaiian Green sea turtles basking along the beach trail. This 3-mile hike offers the chance to see petroglyphs, historic fishponds, sandy beaches, and even a heiau (sacred temple). Please be respectful of all historic sites, as Hawaiians still bring offerings to the heiau.
With so many opportunities for exploration, stunning scenery, and significant cultural sites, it’s easy to recognize why this trail is so memorable.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Pu’u Huluhulu Trail
Between the starry summit of Mauna Kea and the broad expanse of Mauna Loa lies the windy, picturesque Saddle Road. Take this high-elevation route as it passes between two incredible volcanoes, leading you to the stunning Pu’u Huluhulu native tree sanctuary and nature trail. This kipuka (a small patch of forest isolated by lava flows) is directly across from the Mauna Kea Observatory turn-off. It rises like an island in a vast ocean of dried lava flows that surround its base.
This sanctuary is filled with native plants, trees, and birds, including remnants of the ancient Koa tree forests that once covered the slopes of Mauna Kea. Along the trail, you might hear the soft songs of the scarlet and black ‘apapane Hawaiian honeycreepers in the treetops. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a pueo, the native owl, swooping across the green canopy.
The main loop trail takes about 30 minutes, but plan for a longer stay to enjoy the breathtaking views, relax under the lush green canopy with a picnic, or explore for rare birds and exotic trees.
Difficulty: Moderate
Kilauea Iki Trail
One of the best hikes in Volcanoes National Park on the southern part of the island is the Kilauea Iki Trail. Accessible from Crater Rim Drive, trail maps and information are available at the Visitor Center. This 4-mile loop (2-3 hours) starts atop the Kilauea Iki crater rim and descends steeply through a rainforest filled with tropical flora and fauna. On reaching the dried lava lake on the crater floor, you’ll walk across a once-molten lake of lava.
In 1959, an eruption sent 1900ft high lava fountains pouring 86 million tons of lava into the lake. It took over 30 years for the lava lake to solidify completely. Near the eastern edge, you can still find the deep drill holes where scientists once assessed the underground lava. Across the crater floor, young ‘ohi’a lehua trees, the first plant to colonize lava flows, dot the landscape with beautiful red blossoms. This hike offers an incredible blend of prehistoric volcanic landscapes and vibrant rainforest.
Difficulty: Moderate, hiking boots suggested
After a day of exploring the breathtaking trails and diverse landscapes of Hawaii’s Big Island, unwind in the serene comfort of our Hawaii bed and breakfast. Nestled near Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, our peaceful rainforest retreat offers the perfect blend of luxury and nature, providing you with an ideal base for your island adventures.
Relax in one of our intimate lodges, rejuvenate in our hot tub, and start each morning with a delicious in-room breakfast before heading out on your next hike. Don’t miss out on a truly unique Hawaiian experience—Book Now and make Volcano Village Lodge your home away from home on the Big Island.